South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging public golf courses in the country.
Here are the top five: The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, Dunes Golf and Beach Club, and True Blue Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed explanation of what makes each of these courses stand out.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a gem on the South Carolina coast, offering a unique blend of beauty and challenge.
Designed by Pete Dye and opened in 1991, this course is famous for its breathtaking seaside views and demanding layout.
Overview
Located on Kiawah Island, SC, The Ocean Course was designed by the legendary Pete Dye.
It opened in 1991 and has since become one of the most celebrated golf courses in the United States.
Its design takes full advantage of the natural landscape, making it a favorite for both professional and amateur golfers.
Course Highlights
The Ocean Course is renowned for its challenging layout, which tests even the most skilled golfers.
The course has hosted several notable tournaments, including the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship.
The layout features numerous seaside holes that offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean but also come with the challenge of unpredictable wind conditions.
Strategic play is essential here, as the course demands precision and thoughtful shot planning.
Playing Tips
To tackle The Ocean Course successfully, golfers need to develop strategies for dealing with its unique challenges.
The key is to adapt to the wind, which can vary significantly throughout the day.
Keeping the ball low and using the wind to your advantage can help.
Players should also focus on course management, aiming for the safest parts of the fairways and greens rather than going for risky shots.
Practicing on similar coastal courses or in windy conditions can also be beneficial before playing here.
Visitor Information
When planning a visit to The Ocean Course, it's helpful to know the following details:
- Green Fees: The green fees vary depending on the season and day of the week. During peak times, they can be quite high, reflecting the course's prestigious status.
- Booking a Tee Time: It's recommended to book tee times well in advance, especially during the busy season. Reservations can typically be made online through the Kiawah Island Golf Resort's website or by calling the pro shop.
- Accommodation Options Nearby: Staying on Kiawah Island offers the convenience of being close to the course. The Kiawah Island Golf Resort has several lodging options, ranging from luxurious hotel rooms to spacious villas and private homes. Nearby Charleston also offers a variety of accommodations for those looking to explore more of the region.
Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort
Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort is a revered destination for golfers, combining challenging play with picturesque scenery.
Situated on Hilton Head Island, SC, this course was co-designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus and has been captivating golfers since its opening in 1969.
Overview
Located on the scenic Hilton Head Island, Harbour Town Golf Links was designed by the renowned team of Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus.
It opened in 1969 and has since become a staple on the PGA Tour, known for hosting the annual RBC Heritage tournament.
The course is celebrated for its demanding layout, requiring precision and strategic thinking.
Course Highlights
Harbour Town Golf Links is best known for its annual hosting of the RBC Heritage, a PGA Tour event that attracts top players from around the world.
The course is recognized for its demanding accuracy requirements, with narrow fairways and small greens that challenge even the best golfers.
One of the most iconic features of Harbour Town is the lighthouse that serves as a backdrop to the 18th hole, creating a memorable finish to the round.
Playing Tips
To excel at Harbour Town Golf Links, golfers need to navigate the tight fairways with care.
Accuracy off the tee is crucial, as the course is lined with trees and water hazards that can quickly add strokes to your score.
Key holes to focus on include the par-4 13th, which requires a precise drive and approach shot, and the famous 18th hole, where the lighthouse adds both beauty and pressure to your final shots.
Practicing your short game and approach shots will be particularly beneficial when preparing to play this course.
Visitor Information
For those planning a visit to Harbour Town Golf Links, here are some essential details to keep in mind:
- Green Fees: The green fees at Harbour Town can be on the higher end, especially during peak season and around the time of the RBC Heritage. Checking the Sea Pines Resort website for current rates is advisable.
- Booking a Tee Time: Tee times can be booked through the Sea Pines Resort website or by contacting the pro shop directly. Given the course's popularity, especially during tournament season, it's wise to book well in advance.
- Accommodation Options Nearby: Staying within Sea Pines Resort offers the most convenience, with several lodging options ranging from luxurious inns to rental homes and villas. Additionally, Hilton Head Island has a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the course.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, located in Pawleys Island, SC, is a golfing masterpiece designed by Mike Strantz.
Since its opening in 1994, this course has been celebrated for its stunning beauty and challenging play, offering golfers a unique experience steeped in Southern charm.
Overview
Situated in the picturesque setting of Pawleys Island, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club was crafted by the imaginative designer Mike Strantz.
Opening its doors in 1994, the course quickly garnered acclaim for its exceptional design and natural beauty.
Nestled among centuries-old live oaks, Caledonia seamlessly blends a visually stunning landscape with a challenging layout that tests golfers of all skill levels.
Course Highlights
Caledonia is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
The course features meticulously maintained fairways and greens, ensuring a top-tier playing experience.
Its Southern charm is evident in every detail, from the welcoming clubhouse to the thoughtfully designed holes that require both strategic thinking and precise execution.
Playing Tips
Approaching the greens at Caledonia requires careful planning and a keen understanding of the course's nuances.
Many of the greens are well-protected by bunkers and water hazards, necessitating accurate approach shots.
Strategic play is crucial; golfers should focus on positioning their shots to set up manageable putts and avoid potential trouble spots.
It's also beneficial to study the course layout beforehand, noting the placement of hazards and the best angles for attacking each hole.
Visitor Information
When planning a visit to Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, here are some important details to keep in mind:
- Green Fees: The green fees at Caledonia vary by season and day of the week. It's advisable to check the club's website or contact the pro shop for the most current rates.
- Booking a Tee Time: Tee times can be booked online through the Caledonia Golf & Fish Club's website or by calling the pro shop. Given the course's popularity, booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak golfing seasons.
- Accommodation Options Nearby: Pawleys Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From charming bed-and-breakfasts and beachfront hotels to rental cottages and villas, there are plenty of choices to ensure a comfortable stay. Staying in nearby Myrtle Beach is also an option, providing access to a broader array of lodging and entertainment options.
Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Dunes Golf and Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, SC, is a historic and revered golf course that combines classic design with stunning ocean views.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and opened in 1948, this course has stood the test of time and continues to challenge golfers with its thoughtful layout and beautiful scenery.
Overview
Located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, Dunes Golf and Beach Club was designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and opened its doors in 1948.
The course quickly established itself as a premier golfing destination, known for its strategic design and picturesque setting.
It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, further cementing its status in the golfing community.
Course Highlights
The course at Dunes Golf and Beach Club is a classic design that has remained relevant and challenging for over seven decades.
One of its most notable features is the par-5 13th hole, famously known as “Waterloo.”
This hole is both beautiful and daunting, requiring precision and strategic play to navigate successfully.
The course offers stunning ocean views and a variety of scenic holes that make for an enjoyable yet challenging round of golf.
Each hole is uniquely designed to test different aspects of a golfer's game, from long drives to delicate putts.
Playing Tips
To tackle the famous “Waterloo” hole, golfers need to plan their shots carefully.
The hole features water hazards that come into play, making accuracy and course management critical.
It’s essential to stay focused and avoid risky shots that could lead to high scores.
Throughout the course, balancing the challenge with enjoyment means taking time to appreciate the stunning views and well-designed holes.
Keeping a calm and strategic approach can help in managing the course's difficulties while still enjoying the overall experience.
Visitor Information
For those planning to visit Dunes Golf and Beach Club, the following information will be helpful:
- Green Fees: The green fees at Dunes Golf and Beach Club can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the club's website or contact the pro shop for the most up-to-date rates.
- Booking a Tee Time: Tee times can be booked online through the club’s website or by calling the pro shop directly. Given the course's popularity, especially during peak seasons, it is advisable to book well in advance.
- Accommodation Options Nearby: Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. From beachfront resorts and hotels to vacation rentals and budget-friendly motels, there is something for everyone. Staying close to the course can enhance the overall experience, providing easy access to the club and the beautiful surrounding area.
True Blue Golf Club
True Blue Golf Club, located in Pawleys Island, SC, offers a modern and exciting golfing experience designed by Mike Strantz.
Opened in 1998, this course is known for its wide fairways, large greens, and significant elevation changes, providing a unique and enjoyable challenge for golfers of all levels.
Overview
Nestled in the charming area of Pawleys Island, True Blue Golf Club was created by the innovative golf course designer Mike Strantz.
Since its opening in 1998, True Blue has gained a reputation for its bold design and player-friendly layout.
The course stands out for its vast fairways and large, undulating greens, which make for a forgiving yet strategic game.
The significant elevation changes throughout the course add an extra layer of challenge and visual appeal, making each round a memorable experience.
Course Highlights
True Blue is celebrated for its expansive fairways that give golfers ample room to navigate their shots.
The large greens are meticulously maintained, providing a smooth and consistent putting surface.
One of the defining features of True Blue is its significant elevation changes, which are rare in coastal courses.
These variations in height create dramatic views and require thoughtful club selection and shot planning.
The course's modern design offers a fun and fair challenge, catering to both high-handicap players and seasoned golfers looking for a test.
Playing Tips
Handling the elevation changes at True Blue requires a good understanding of how different slopes can affect ball flight and distance.
Golfers should take the time to assess each hole and adjust their club choice accordingly to account for uphill or downhill lies.
Taking advantage of the wide fairways means focusing on positioning rather than just distance.
By aiming for the best angles to approach the large greens, players can set up easier putts and avoid tricky hazards.
Additionally, paying attention to the wind direction, which can be influenced by the course's open layout, will help in making more accurate shots.
Visitor Information
When planning a visit to True Blue Golf Club, here are some essential details to consider:
- Green Fees: The green fees at True Blue vary depending on the time of year and day of the week. Checking the course's official website or calling the pro shop will provide the most current pricing information.
- Booking a Tee Time: Tee times can be reserved online through True Blue Golf Club's website or by contacting the pro shop directly. Given the course's popularity, especially during peak golfing seasons, it is advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred time.
- Accommodation Options Nearby: Pawleys Island offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from charming bed-and-breakfasts, beachfront hotels, and rental cottages. Staying in nearby Myrtle Beach is also an option, providing a wider range of lodging and entertainment choices.
Conclusion
South Carolina boasts some of the finest public golf courses in the country, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking scenery.
From the iconic Ocean Course at Kiawah Island to the modern layout of True Blue Golf Club, these courses provide unforgettable experiences for golfers of all levels.
Plan your visit to enjoy world-class golfing amidst the natural beauty and charm of the Palmetto State.
